VisaChief 188 vs 858: which Australian visa is right for you?
Two routes for high-calibre business and talent applicants: the Business Innovation & Investment (188) provisional visa and the permanent National Innovation visa (858).
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Business Innovation & Investment (Provisional) visa (188) | National Innovation visa (NIV) (858) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Closed to new applications | Permanent / PR |
| Who it's for | Formerly for business owners and investors. The program is closed to new applications - the National Innovation visa is the current pathway. | Highly skilled individuals with an internationally recognised record of exceptional and outstanding achievement. Replaced the Global Talent program. |
| Government cost | Closed - no new applications accepted | ~$5,135 (main applicant) |
| Processing time | - | Varies - case by case |
| Length of stay | - | Permanent |
| Where to apply | - | Onshore or offshore |
| Work rights | - | Unlimited - full PR work rights |
| Points-tested | Yes | No |
| Pathway to PR | Closed since 2024. Existing 188 holders may still progress to the 888 permanent stage; new applicants should consider the National Innovation visa (858). | This visa IS permanent residence. |
Which is right for you?
Business Innovation & Investment (Provisional) visa (188)
Formerly for business owners and investors. The program is closed to new applications - the National Innovation visa is the current pathway.
Full 188 guide →National Innovation visa (NIV) (858)
Highly skilled individuals with an internationally recognised record of exceptional and outstanding achievement. Replaced the Global Talent program.
Full 858 guide →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, 188 or 858?
On indicative 2025-26 government costs, National Innovation visa (NIV) (858) is the lowest at ~$5,135 (main applicant). Government fees change periodically - confirm before applying.
Which of these leads to permanent residence?
858 is permanent. 188: Closed since 2024. Existing 188 holders may still progress to the 888 permanent stage; new applicants should consider the National Innovation visa (858). 858: This visa IS permanent residence.
What's the main difference between 188 and 858?
Business Innovation & Investment (Provisional) visa (188) is for formerly for business owners and investors. The program is closed to new applications - the National Innovation visa is the current pathway. National Innovation visa (NIV) (858) is for highly skilled individuals with an internationally recognised record of exceptional and outstanding achievement. Replaced the Global Talent program.